History Made: 80-Year-Old Retired Nurse Becomes First Female Chief in Bulilima District

By Tatenda Gabi

In a groundbreaking ceremony held at Dombodema High School, located near Chief Hikwa’s homestead, Adelaide Tshuma nee Nleya was installed as Chief Hikwa, marking a significant milestone for the Bulilima District. The 80-year-old is retired nurse is the first female chief in the district and the first to hold the revived Hikwa chieftainship.

Chief Hikwa is a retired nurse who was born in 1944. She received her education at Tjontenga Primary and Dombodema Secondary schools before crossing the border to Zambia, where she pursued nursing. During the liberation struggle, she provided medical care to freedom fighters. After Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, she worked as a nurse at the United Bulawayo Hospitals until her retirement in 1999.

The installation of Chief Hikwa was celebrated as a symbolic event, as she is known for her strong advocacy of Kalanga culture. A representative of the Manyangwa family, where the Kalanga rain-making mountain shrine is located, expressed his delight in her appointment, stating that she has great knowledge of their cultural practices and has visited the shrine before.

The government’s commitment to reviving the traditional leadership structure was highlighted by the presence of several officials at the event. Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Gware, who was represented by the Acting Director Coordination in the Office of the President and Cabinet in Matabeleland South Province, Ms. Sikhangele Ndlovu, emphasized the critical role of chiefs in community development.

Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Dr. Evelyn Ndlovu, praised the government’s efforts in filling vacant traditional leadership positions, stating that this is crucial for the devolution agenda and citizen participation in development matters.

With the installation of Chief Hikwa, Bulilima District now has a total of six installed chiefs, including Chief Masendu, Chief Mphini, Chief Kandana, Chief Manguba, and Chief Madlambudzi. The Bulilima Member of Parliament, Dingumuzi Phuthi, described Chief Hikwa as a development-oriented leader who deeply values Kalanga culture, and expressed optimism that her appointment will drive progress in the region.

This historic event marks a significant milestone in the revitalization of traditional leadership in Bulilima District and the empowerment of women in positions of authority.